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Survey Instrument Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Timmons Group

Survey Instrument Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Instrument Operator assists Land Surveyors and Party Chiefs in application of principles, methods, and techniques of civil engineering and land surveying by performing the following duties.

Timmons Group, Inc.

Survey Crew Chief

Raleigh, NC

The Party Chief is responsible for directing the daily activities of assigned Survey Instrument Operator to gather and complete assigned engineering and land surveys. Essential duties and ...

Timmons Group

Survey Crew Chief

Raleigh, NC

The Party Chief is responsible for directing the daily activities of assigned Survey Instrument Operator to gather and complete assigned engineering and land surveys. Essential duties and ...

Timmons Group

Survey Crew Chief

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Party Chief is responsible for directing the daily activities of assigned Survey Instrument Operator to gather and complete assigned engineering and land surveys. Essential duties and ...

McAdams

Instrument Operator I

Durham, NC

Position Overview Geomatics entry level position within the survey crew team that assists with field surveying activities, equipment maintenance and data collection. Key Responsibilities * Assists ...

McAdams

Instrument Operator I

Durham, NC · On-site

Assists and takes directions from survey crew chief to complete daily work activities * Understands the basic operation of surveying equipment and data collection standards and guidelines * Properly ...

McAdams

Instrument Operator I

Durham, NC

Assists and takes directions from survey crew chief to complete daily work activities * Understands the basic operation of surveying equipment and data collection standards and guidelines * Properly ...

McAdams

Crew Chief I - Surveying

Durham, NC

Position Purpose Responsible for operations of a field survey crew including managing and mentoring Instrument Operators. Prepare and manage field notes and field data files and return them to office ...

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All JobsSurvey Instrument Operator JobsSurvey Instrument Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Survey Instrument Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$21

$30

How much do survey instrument operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for survey instrument operator in Raleigh, NC is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a survey instrument operator might face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Survey Instrument Operators often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can impact both comfort and the accuracy of equipment readings. Navigating uneven terrain and ensuring precise alignment of instruments are also regular challenges. To address these issues, operators should be well-versed in equipment calibration, use protective gear for weather, and maintain clear communication with their team to resolve discrepancies quickly. Adapting to changing environments and staying updated on the latest surveying technologies can further enhance efficiency and accuracy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a survey instrument operator?

To thrive as a Survey Instrument Operator, you need a solid understanding of land surveying principles, mathematics, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional training in surveying preferred. Familiarity with electronic total stations, GPS equipment, and data collection software is essential for accurate field measurements. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure precise data collection and effective collaboration with survey crews. These skills are crucial for producing reliable survey results that support engineering, construction, and land development projects.

What is a survey instrument operator?

Survey Instrument Operators are professionals who assist land surveyors by setting up, operating, and maintaining surveying equipment such as total stations, GPS units, and levels. They play a crucial role in collecting accurate measurements of land features, boundaries, and construction sites. Their work supports the creation of maps, legal property descriptions, and engineering plans. Survey Instrument Operators often work outdoors in various weather conditions and must ensure the precision and reliability of the data collected.

What is the difference between Survey Instrument Operator vs Geospatial Technician?

AspectSurvey Instrument OperatorGeospatial Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, survey-specific certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in geospatial sciences or related field
Work EnvironmentOutdoor survey sites, construction areasOffice, GIS labs, field data collection
Industry UsageConstruction, surveying firms, engineeringUrban planning, GIS mapping, environmental projects

Survey Instrument Operators primarily focus on operating survey equipment in the field, while Geospatial Technicians handle data processing, mapping, and GIS analysis. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their technical focus and educational requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Survey Instrument Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Survey Instrument Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Survey Instrument Operator job openings:
Survey Instrument Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Survey Instrument Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,116 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Survey Instrument Operator

Timmons Group

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 440 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Timmons Group is currently seeking a Survey Instrument Operator to join our Survey Group located in our Raleigh, NC office location. The Instrument Operator assists Land Surveyors and Party Chiefs in application of principles, methods, and techniques of civil engineering and land surveying by performing the following duties.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Collects data for boundaries, location, topographical, and design surveys
  • Operates robotic total station, level, GPS Receivers and data collectors in performance of field surveys
  • Sets points on construction stakeout projects (curb and gutter, drop inlets, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, waterline, bridges, etc.)
  • Conducts daily maintenance and up-keep of instruments
  • Makes sketches and records measurements to indicate exact location of horizontal and vertical control points
  • Assists in the maintenance of survey equipment, supplies, and vehicle
  • Travel may be required at times
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:

  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to read survey and engineering drawings
  • Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as trigonometry and geometry
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills and be able to apply professional knowledge to the solution of both routine and non-routine tasks and surveying activities
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of team with excellent time management skills to ensure deadlines are met
  • Have a current state driver’s license and able to drive a vehicle
  • Physical demands include: ▪ Must be able to carry up to 50 lb. of equipment over all types of terrain.

▪ All-weather year-round outdoor work environment, with seasonal extreme heat index and wind-chill factors

▪Other physical attributes of the job, such as hiking, climbing, vegetation management (chopping, cutting, hammering, sawing, etc.)

Additional Information

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company’s Vision, Mission and Shared Values.

Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a “Best Firm to Work For” by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record’s (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com. 

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